Blank Canvas Venues for Hire in London

Your Guide to Hiring Blank Canvas Venues in London

Blank canvas venues give you free reign to bring the vision you have for your event to life. Able to accommodate almost any request, these spaces mean you can really let your imagination run wild. On the lookout for a New York-style loft, creative studio space or the perfect place to pitch a marquee? Our friendly team is happy to give personalised venue recommendations, whether you’re after a chic gallery space for a corporate drinks reception, outdoor party venue for the perfect pop-up dinner or a refurbished railway arch for a product launch that really packs a punch. So what are you waiting for? One of London’s best blank canvas venues is only a couple of clicks away!

When hiring a blank canvas venue, keep in mind:

• your budget (know where you can splash out and where you can cut costs)

• your guest list (whether you’re planning a meeting for 15 people or a birthday bash for 300, it’s important to choose a venue that’s just the right size for the number of guests you anticipate)

• the venue’s location (north, south, east or west London) and accessibility (parking, connections to public transport, disabled access)

• the venue’s rules regarding drinks (some venues provide the drinks while others charge corkage)

• the venue’s catering options and licences (like whether the venue has an alcohol licence or can cater to special dietary requirements)

• the venue’s sound system and acoustics

• the venue’s heating/cooling system (you may need to bolster existing facilities with heaters in winter or fans in summer)

• entertainment options (don’t forget to speak to the venue manager about what you’re planning, whether it’s hiring a live band or setting off fireworks)

• what is and isn’t included (check which spaces and facilities are included and what furniture and equipment you can use, as well as who’ll supply linen, cutlery and service staff)

• the fine print (some venues may require you to hire security or kitchen porters of their choice, or penalise you if the clean up is unsatisfactory)

• the set up (blank canvas venues often allow you to go in early and spend a long time setting up, which really helps to create an event that surpasses expectations)

• any cancellation fees

Tips and tricks for hosting an event in a blank canvas venue:

• if you’re holding your event outside, make sure to have a plan B in case of rain, and to consider your lighting options (this is key for events that carry on into the evening)

• choose a blank canvas venue that fits in with your theme (do you need an all-white venue for a Winter Wonderland-themed wedding or a cutting-edge concept space for a networking event with creative types?)

• alternatively, to keep planning low maintenance, hire an amazing or unusual venue that’ll blow everyone away

• if your blank canvas space is large, get creative with your decor (larger pieces will make a bigger impact)

• break an open-plan space into zones by creating cosy seating areas and making other areas standing room only

Transforming Spaces: A Guide to Personalising Blank Canvas Venues

Blank canvas venues are the ultimate playground for event organisers, offering a fantastic opportunity to craft an event from the ground up, tailored exactly to your vision. The beauty of such spaces lies in their versatility, whether you're hosting a wedding, corporate event, or a lively party, the possibilities are endless. Here's how to personalise a blank canvas event space in London and transform it into a space that resonates with your personal style.

• Define Your Vision: Start with a clear idea of what you want your event to look and feel like. Consider creating a mood board that combines your colours, themes, textures, and any inspiration you've gathered from other events. This will serve as a blueprint as you begin to transform the space.
• Select a Cohesive Colour Scheme: Colours can dramatically alter the atmosphere of a venue. Choose a palette that complements your theme, whether it's soft pastels for a romantic anniversary event or bold, vibrant hues for a lively teen party. Utilise fabrics, lighting, and décor elements to weave your colours throughout the venue.
• Invest in Lighting: Lighting is a powerful tool for personalising a space. It can highlight architectural features, create intimacy, or add drama. Consider uplighting, fairy lights, lanterns, or custom gobos to project patterns or monograms. Smart lighting can also change the mood from the ceremony to the reception or reflect different stages of a corporate event.
• Incorporate Textures and Layers: Textures add depth and interest to a space. Use drapery to soften the room or add elegance, rugs to define areas, and table linens to tie in your colour scheme. Layering elements such as wood, metal, and glass can also enhance the visual appeal of your event.
• Focus on Floral and Greenery: Flowers and plants can transform any space, adding life and colour. Consider floral installations, green walls, or hanging gardens to create focal points. Even minimalistic event spaces benefit from the beauty of nature, which can be tailored to fit any theme.
• Furniture and Layout: The arrangement of furniture can define the flow and feel of your event in London. Lounge areas encourage relaxation and conversation, while unique seating arrangements can make a ceremony or presentation more engaging. Select pieces that fit your theme and contribute to guest comfort.
• Personal Touches: Incorporate elements that reflect your personality or brand. This could be through bespoke signage, photo displays, interactive installations, or customised giveaways. These details make the event memorable and special to you.
• Utilise Art and Decor: Art pieces, whether sculptures, paintings, or digital installations, can serve as conversation starters and add to the event's theme. Consider hiring local artists or utilising technology like digital mapping for dynamic decor.
• Sound and Music: The acoustics of a space can significantly impact the atmosphere of your event. Carefully curate your music selection or hire live musicians to enhance the atmosphere and complement the theme of your event.
• Work with Professionals: Collaborate with event designers, florists, lighting technicians, and other professionals who can help bring your vision to life. Their expertise can be invaluable in transforming a customisable venue in London into a personalised masterpiece.

Remember, transforming a blank canvas venue is all about creativity and attention to detail. By carefully considering each element of your event, you can create a magnificent experience for your guests that perfectly encapsulates your vision!

The Planner's Toolkit: Essentials for Blank Canvas Events

Organising an event in a blank canvas venue in London offers boundless creativity, but it also demands detailed planning and organisation. From logistics to decor, every aspect needs to be considered to ensure your event is a success. Here's your essential toolkit for navigating the complexities of planning a blank canvas event, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

• Comprehensive Checklist: Begin with a detailed checklist that covers every aspect of your event. This should include venue booking, catering, entertainment, decor, lighting, furniture rental, and any specific requirements unique to your event. Regularly update this checklist as you progress in your planning.
• Budget Planner: An accurate budget planner is crucial for managing costs effectively. Customisable venues in London offer a great deal of flexibility, which means costs can quickly escalate. Break down your budget into clear categories and allocate a contingency fund for unexpected expenses.
• Vendor List: Compile a list of trusted vendors, from caterers and florists to AV technicians and furniture hire companies. Strong relationships with reliable suppliers are invaluable, particularly when coordinating multiple elements in a blank canvas space.
• Layout Plans: Sketch out floor plans for your event, considering the flow of guests, placement of furniture, and areas for key activities. Use software tools or work with a professional designer to ensure your layout maximises space and enhances the guest experience.
• Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit for unforeseen issues on the day of the event. Include basic tools, cleaning supplies, first aid essentials, and any specific items that might be needed quickly to address minor problems.
• Communication Plan: Develop a clear communication plan that outlines how you will coordinate with the venue, vendors, and event staff. This should include contact lists, schedules, and any critical information that needs to be shared.
• Feedback and Evaluation Forms: Design feedback forms for guests and vendors to evaluate the success of the event and identify areas for improvement. This feedback is invaluable for refining your approach to future events.

Organising an event in a blank canvas venue is an exciting opportunity to create something truly unique. With the right planning tools and a detailed approach, you can ensure your event not only meets but exceeds expectations, leaving a lasting impression on your guests. To ensure your event in London is stunning, check out our definitive event planning checklist!

FAQs about Blank Canvas Venues in London

How much does it cost to hire a blank canvas venue in London?

Blank canvas venues in London can be hired by the hour, with the average price ranging between £14 to £50. A daily hire starts at £100 and can go up to £600. Remember that the prices may vary depending on the duration and the day and the time of the hire, as well as the equipment available at the venue. (All data from Tagvenue.)

What equipment is available with a blank canvas venue hire?

Depending on the type of venue you’re hiring, there will be different equipment available. Many blank canvas venues are studios, and may come with lighting equipment, backdrops and light stands. Some venues will also offer sound systems, A/V equipment and WiFi. If you need any particular equipment to be available for your event, make sure to reach out to the venue manager to ask about the details before you make your final booking.

What kind of event can I host in a blank canvas venue in London?

If you’re looking to organise a unique event where you need a fully customisable venue, a blank canvas venue will be the best choice for you. Since those kinds of venues come in all shapes and sizes, they can be used for corporate events, such as product launches or pop-up stores, or team-building workshops. A blank canvas venue would also be perfect for throwing a memorable birthday party, a baby shower, or a hen night. If you’re looking for a unique wedding experience, a blank canvas space will be best to bring your vision to life.

What are some of the best blank canvas venues in London?

Here at Tagvenue we offer only the best blank canvas venues out there, but we know that some are better than others, so here are our top picks:

• The Old Street Gallery - A versatile venue just minutes away from Old Street Station with over 1000 square feet of space that can be adjusted to your event, The Old Street Gallery is a perfect place for creative events, private functions and many more.
• The Factory - This warehouse-turned-venue has everything you need: a simple and neat space, natural light and flexibility. With equipment available for hire, The Factory will be the best place for your next production, corporate event, or unique party.
• The Menier Lounge - A versatile space in an old chocolate factory will hit all the sweet spots you need from a blank canvas venue. With amazing backdrops everywhere you turn, and floor-to-ceiling windows you will not take a bad photo here. That’s why this venue is ideal for photoshoots, production, as well as corporate events and private parties.